Year in Review...

Well I must say it's been a good year, I didn't declare bankruptcy, I'm very healthy, I have so many friends, and a boyfriend who loves me dearly. Don't think I can complain. January started out with the usual I'm going to be healthier this year so we bought an elliptical (I've vowed I'm going to start using it again this week....lol) on to the regular winter routine of hockey and work. Then Kristen and I celebrated our 25th birthdays so we decided to go out to a bar (along with Jamie and Chris for thier March birthdays, Chris turned 30) to realize why I don't go out to bars. Then the spring was full of last minute planning for all the friends weddings, bridal showers, and Jack and Jills. Then the summer were all the showers, jack and jills and weddings, a few camping trips and a trip to Nfld which was awesome! Then we came back and started packing, October we moved to the new house and here we are. I've had my shares of ups and downs over the year, but overallit was happy and I know I have some great memories that I'll cherish a lifetime.

As for what 2006 holds, who knows!?!? I have a couple of goals one is to get a trip down south with Kristen (apply for passports on Jan to do list) I also mentioned in a previous post that I made a resolution to have a good winter and not get the blues, and to just be a better person. Not that I think I'm oh so evil or anything but I always feel there's room for improvement, that moment where I snap, or when I'm just contrary for no "real" reason, or when I share in the gossip when I just should stay quiet.

Anyway I'm off, a lot to do before my guests arrive this evening for our little new years eve bash. Hope you all can reflect on 2005 with fondness and have even higher expectations for yourself for 2006.

Christmas Eve Tradition

Every year that we're in Ontario Kristen and I try to have lobsters on Christmas Eve. This year my brother joined us since he couldn't go home and mom & dad couldn't be here. We had such a feast, it was sooooo good.

Almost a sensible picture

I NEVER take a sensible picture, I'm always goofing off or don't feel comfortable just sitting and smiling nice when I know other people are watching me (for exampe at the tips eve party with Steph, Marianne, etc staring at me while Jen takes a pic...lol) Anyway...thought I'd post this one since it's "kind of" sensible and not the usual crazy smile or dumbest expression ever.

A Deer Every Christmas...

Never fails....either with time booked off or it's over the scheduled shut down, Kristen goes hunting and shoots a deer at Christmas.

The very first deer he shot was 4 years ago, around 8:30 in the morning of Christmas Eve. We were in such a panic to get it to the Butchers before he closed for the holidays. Then the last two years he shot one but both times got away (realized it was the broadhead he was using, its the tip of the arrow for those of you who don't know hunting lingo) And then last night here we go again, he went hunting with an old neighbour of ours and around 6:15 he shows up saying Christa I got a buck!! I get so excited cause he's so excited. He said he had a chance to shoot at a second buck but the neighbour showed up two minutes too soon and scared it away. Maybe next time honey, but I sure am proud of you. Only 11% of bow hunters are successful, guess this means my honey bunny does have talent. Just kidding honey, not only is it something you're good at, I'm fully aware that it's your passion too. Congrats on the kill!

Tips Eve Party 2005

I honestly don't remember what Kristen was laughing at when I took this pic.

Corey falling asleep towards the end of the night. He got up after this pic and ate ribs :)

Jen just chillin on the couch and Steph in her cute Santa hat.

Home Sweet Home

It was a great weekend! Friday night I finished most of my shopping, then headed to Kristen's hockey game. Saturday I spent the day decorating the tree, cleaning and then went to Vicky's and Corey's House warming/Tips Eve party. Had a great time, met some new people and hung out with the usual friends. Sunday I did some scrapbooking (the retirement gift previously mentioned) and then headed to Myrna's house to watch her wedding video. Which I cried through cause its just so awesome but sad that I missed it. When I got home I just re-heated some leftovers for Kristen and myself for dinner then he headed off to hockey. I decided not to go since it was a later game.

For my evening home I decided to watch a movie, The Family Man was playing on tv so I figured that was a good choice. I turned off all the lights and just curled up on the couch to the lights of the Christmas tree. I was about half way through the movie and during a commercial break was just staring at the tree and realized that I finally felt at home. I finally felt that I was settled that this house was my own and not just some new place I moved in too. It was such a weird feeling that I can't even really explain it, but I felt so comfortable and at home. Makes me look forward to Christmas morning even more than ever now.

Crazy Lady

I have so much rage today! I get so angry that I just want to cry. Why am I such a psycho girl? Why can't I just be pleasant and happy and not a crazy bitch?

I know I don't want to be like this, however I totally go with the emotion instead of choosing to take the higher path and not react or snap. Dr. Phil would have a field day with me. I'd be the patient saying "but I just can't help it" and he would sternly say, "you CHOOSE how you want to react or behave. And I would respond "I know, but I don't know why I react so negatively" Why can't I just let things go and go with the flow?

Anyway....that's enough I don't want to type anymore.

In the Christmas Spirit

You'll be pleased to know I'm FINALLY in the Christmas spirit. I skipped pilates Monday night to wrap more presents, finish my Christmas cards and to just be home for a few hours instead of running around. Kristen and I went to Buffalo, NY on Sunday with his Uncle Brian so with that and some shopping on Monday after work I managed to finish most of my shopping. The only shopping I have left is for my mom (gifts for myself, another gift for Kristen, and a gift for her sister Grace) and then shopping for myself (Kristens remaining gifts and stocking stuffers). All of which I'm hoping to finish this weekend or very EARLY next week. I've also told Kristen that Saturday I'm not going anywhere I'm staying in to finish my scrapbooking project. Saturday night we have a Tips Eve/House warming party at a friends house and Sunday nothing particular planned (maybe that'll be my shopping day)

Kristen is going to try to get our tree tonight after work (I'm going to Jen's house before volleyball) we haven't had much luck yet. Hopefully he'll find the perfect tree. I really wanted to be there to help pick out the first tree for our new house but it's just not working out. I trust his judgement, if anything he'll be more picky than me. Then he can start with setting it up and in the next day or two put on the lights. All I have to do is decorate it after that :) Yes feel very good about everything getting accomplished. And I'm excited about doing/enjoying everything. I don't have that overwhelmed feeling anymore.

So yes, Christmas is here, Christa isn't the grinch anymore, and only 11 sleeps til Santa comes!!

Winter

I just rec'd an email from scrapbooking.com and it was encouraging scrappers to enter the winter contest. I saw a layout that was of a child sliding....and I felt an instant feeling of comfort and peace. It was at that moment that I realized I love winter!!! I love all seasons and all for VERY different reasons. I love spring cause the days are longer, better spirits, warmer weather. Then on to summer when I'm the only one not complaining when we get a heat wave, camping, vacationing, and the beaches. I love fall cause its a feeling of beginnings (I guess cause school always started in Sept and it was a new "year") the crisp air, colourful leaves and the bluest sky. Then on to winter, just that cozy feeling, the blanket of snow protecting us, always covered up in blankets to stay warm, bundling up so many layers of clothing, hot soup, hot cooked dinners, short days so dark romantic evenings. I'm a mild sufferer of SAD (seasonal affective disorder) mom just tells me they're January Blues. Whatever you call it I get down that month after Christmas. And yet there was one year that I didn't, that winter was two years ago...and now that I think back one of my best winters in memory. That winter I spent pretty much the entire time doing pilates, playing volleyball, and scrapbooking with the girls. I guess it was the socializing and staying active that really kept my spirits up. Last year january was pretty rough again (I wasn't doing pilates or scrapbooking much). So even though it's kind of early I think my new years resolution is to have a great winter. To be pro-active in the things I am passionate about, scrapbooking, being with Kristen and the girls, and just being active in general, such as taking that winter stroll when its so quiet your ears ring and the snowflakes are as big as cotton balls. Even though I'm soooo overwhelmed with Christmas right now I'm looking forward to that peaceful quiet time to come in January.

Response to Customer Complaints

This is in response to a few complaints about not having an updated blog....you know who you are ;) Well since my last post I am feeling much better physically. Today however I think I'm a bit more of a wreck. The stress of the holidays have finally caught up with me. I just keep thinking about what I have to do and everytime I try to cross something off my to do list, something prevents me from doing so. I've also noticed that lately I've been irritated by such trivial things but has gotten to the point where I'm really bothered by it. So I don't know, just plugging along right now.

Let me tell you about a few of the things planned just this week to give an example of how hectic everything is from now until Christmas, tonight work on a scrapbook that myself, Jen and Myrna are working on for a co-worker who is retiring, also to watch the Charlie Brown Christmas special on tv (I love watching all those shows, puts me in the Christmas spirit) http://abc.go.com/specials/cbrown_christmas.html, tomorrow I have volleyball so those nights are a complete flop, thursday is our ladies office dinner and cleaning night and I also have to get my grocery list figured out since Friday night is grocery night, then Kristen's hockey, plus his mom and Cyril (and probably brother and girlfriend) are all visiting this weekend. Then Saturday is the Girls annual cookie bake, this year at Vicki's new house in Milton (can't wait). On to Saturday night where Kristen wants to host a poker night (meaning I'm entertaining) then Sunday where its the annual shopping excursion (Myrna with the boys, Jen and I with Jamie) and somewhere in all this Kristen wants to get our Christmas tree.

Then on Monday the cycle starts all over again. Don't get me wrong though, I LOVE Christmas and everything about it (the shopping, the busy-ness, the snow, the lights, decorating, wrapping presents). I just feel I haven't had a chance to get my thoughts together to really enjoy anything, probably another reason why I haven't even been blogging. I'm really hoping that when I scrapbook tonight I can just relax and get into the mind-set that I would rather be in this time of year. Wish me luck everyone!

Sick :(

Last Saturday night we went to a benefit dance and stayed at Jen's and Chris's house, to get up Sunday morning with a bit of a scratchy throat. By monday had a cold or so I thought, all week I've been sneezing, runny nose, cough and a REALLY sore throat. Sore enough that finally on friday I called in sick and didn't do much the whole weekend. And so sore that 9am yesterday morning I'm crying to Kristen (who's been amazing, get to that in a minute) cause it hurts so much and I can't understand why a cold is lasting so long. Which brings me to today, I come in to work (cause my Doctor is in Brampton anyway) and make a Dr's appt. I head over to find out the reason I'm not getting better is because its a sinus infection. Which confuses me cause if it's my sinues then why does my throat hurt so bad, but research on the net tells me that the "postnasal drip" is what causes the sore throat, cough, and the hoarseness (I haven't had a sensible voice since Wed I think) so lunchtime I'm off to the drugstore to get my prescription filled and hopefully start feeling some relief on my throat VERY soon.

As for Kristen, he's been wonderful. He swept, mopped, and vacuumed, did the laundry, loaded the dishwasher, cleaned the garage (something I wouldn't have done anyway) and who knows how much more he's helped out since I've been sick. I've noticed he helps with these things anyway just not on a such a consistant basis or without being asked :) Yesterday when I was upset he just playfully patted my head and laughed at first but then he just stayed in bed with me til I wasn't upset anymore. Of course, I start feeling guilty that he's doing so much but I kept reminding myself that I'm not faking sick cause who would stay home on the WEEKEND when you don't have too, and that I know for sure someday I'll be returning the favour to him.

Christmas Survey

My cousin Kayla sent me a Christmas survey, since I love Christmas soooooo much I decided to put the survey on my blog, obviously using my answers not hers :)

Who do you want to be under the mistletoe with? Kristen

What are your favourite Christmas memories? toss up between when I spent Christmas at home or the Christmas's alone with Kristen.

Where would you rather spend Christmas this year? No where, I'm excited about spending my first Christmas in the new house, and I hope we have LOTS of snow

What is your favourite Christmas song? I don't know the name of it but I really took a liking too it when I saw the girl singing it on ELF the one where she sings the girl part and then the guy sings the guy part, I think its called "Baby its cold outside"

What do you usually do Christmas morning? Get up and open my gifts and talk to my family on the phone or go visit people. Or try to keep Kristen from going back to bed.

Have you bought all your presents yet? Nope about half way I guess.

What do you do on Christmas Eve? If we're in Nfld we go to the Christmas eve service at church then go to Nan and Pop's house, in Ontario Kristen and I get lobsters and we open 1 present.

Do you spend Christmas with a lot of family? Yes and the close friends.

Do you go anywhere special on Christmas (vacation) ? When I was a kid we used to go to Lewisporte, not so much now.

How many items are on your wish list? you know I haven't seriously thought about a wish list this year....hmm...where would I begin...he he

What do you usually eat on Christmas? Turkey dinner!!! mmmmm....

When did you find out that Santa wasn't real? I always knew he wasn't real. Long story...lol.

Do you still make snowmen and snow angels? we made an ENORMOUS snowman a few Christmas's when we were home, I think it was literally a 7 ft or 8ft snowman, it was great.

Do you still have snow ball fights with your siblings/parents? Blaine would like too but he's knows I would kick his ass!! lol...same goes for Kristen :)

What's your favourite Christmas movie? Elf and Home Alone (the original)

What do you like doing over the Christmas holidays? just relaxing and hanging out with friends and family.

What do you plan to do for New Year's Eve? I think we are going to host a new years eve party :)

What are your usual traditions on New Year's? We've went to Gage Park a few times.

Got any resolutions? not yet

What's the weirdest thing you've ever got for Christmas? well there was one Christmas that took the cake, Kristen not only gave me a shower radio (???) he also gave me his favourite movie...lmao!!!

What's the most expensive thing you've got for Christmas? dunno, I know what I would "like" it to be :)

How early do you wake up on Christmas morning? around 5:30 cause its 7am in nfld and that's when they call usually.

What do you usually get in your stocking? all kinds of knick knacky things and chocolate :)

Comment of the Day

"Dance like no one can see you, Sing like no one can hear. Write as though eyes will never see it"

Nan Ball

I just read Myrna's blog about her grandfather and of course I start crying at work. I'm such a basket case sometimes. I think it was so raw for me cause I talked to Nan Ball last night. She turned 84 on Wednesday (didn't call Wed cause I wasn't home due to vball). I can't say of all the grandchildren I was the only one who had this oh so special bond with her but I can say for a fact that she loves us all very dearly and for completely different reasons. I love talking with her though, she has such a GREAT memory and tells so many stories from her childhood and our extended family, etc. But what bothers me the most is she was always so full of spunk and energy and these days when I say how are ya doing nan? She replies "oh okay I suppose, hard to get around, or as good as expected for an old lady" and then I ask about pop and her reply for him is even worse. Just so upsetting not to be close and the reality that I may never get home to see them alive again.

But I do want to share a couple of things we talked about last night cause I find it so interesting. She was telling me her parents and Pop's parents name. Her father was Naaman Enos Chaulk, both names are from the Bible, her mother was Susanna Wall (maiden name) she had no middle name and everyone called her Susie. Pop's parents were David Ball (don't know his middle name) and his mother was Eliza Mary Hussey (maiden name, pronounced huzzie not hussie...lol).

She also told me the story of her hair colour...when she was a little girl she had fiery red hair. Then she got thyphoid fever (need to do some research on this yet) and it causes your hair to fall out. When her hair grew back it grew back a really dark brown, almost black. And that's the colour its been until just a few years ago (maybe 5-10) when she got her first few grey hairs. She still doesn't have many and she's often accused of getting it dyed which she is strongly opposed too so I know she doesn't.

So yeah, just some stuff of my Grandmother Ball oh her name is Grace and I found out she has no middle name, her name is Grace and that's it.

House Warming Party

We didn't "technically" have a house warming party, but it worked out that all our friends and some of the family came by Saturday to hang out and have a couple drinks. Here are some pics that Myrna took.

Pics in order: The boys (Chris, Kristen & Jamie), Angel & Brian (Kristens brother and girlfriend), Bev & Cyril (Kristen's mom and step-dad)

Happy Halloween

Pumpkin Carving

Home Owner

It's almost 1 week since we officially moved into our new home. It's great :) it feels so good knowing that the house is ours. I love Acton, it's so quiet and small. I don't even really know what to say, if I did say all the thoughts going through my head I'd be rambling on for days. I will post pics once the house gets in order, we're still waiting for our appliances and I need to return the curtains I have in the living room for different ones. Once all that is done then you'll see my lovely abode.

I've been sooooo busy, we were up at 4:30 this morning getting ready for work cause we had to bring Bev to the airport, then we headed to Giggling Tomatoes for breakfast to kill the hour before it was time to come to work. We moved last Wednesday evening, Thursday Bev and I went to Ikea, Walmart and Canadian Tire getting things for the house. I spent all day Friday washing dishes/tupperware and packing it all away. Then off to Jen's for pumpkin carving (will post pics) Saturday Kristen and I went grocery shopping and then by dinnertime we had a house full....all the friends came by (Jen, Chris, Myrna, Jamie, Steph, Jason, Vicky and Corey) not to mention Bev, Cyril, Brian and Angel and they had Esau there too until Nanny Betty and Poppy Manuel stopped in to pick him up. Oh and Rick and Kathy (Angels aunt and uncle) stopped by as well to wish us congratulations on the new house. I think everyone had a good time, I know I did, I think I'm really going to enjoy the entertaining thing :) Then off to Sunday, Kristen and I went to Jen's for dinner. Kristen headed to hockey and Jen & I headed to Myrna's to work on poodle skirts for Halloween (will post pics for that as well).

Last night Kristen and I headed home after work (I couldn't wait to pass out treats) to only have 9 kids show up....they were all cute especially the one little boy who asked me if I was a girl but said it with that little cute kid accent where they don't really say the "r" We were giving out 2 & 3 bags of chips to the kids just trying to get rid of it.

Tonight I'm hoping to go home from work and make a quick stir fry for supper and that's it. Just relax maybe watch The Amazing Race if I'm even up that late, and do nothing :)

House Moving Eve

Well one more sleep and it's officially moving day. I've been pretty tired with all the packing and moving boxes. It's great to have Kristen's mom here, she's been sooooo helpful! I'm glad it worked out for her to be here for moving day. Yesterday we had our "walk through" officially called our PDI I think...it went well. A few minor things wrong, missing shower rod, few spots needing paint touch ups, couple door knobs need to be replaced and a drawer in the bathroom missing a panel. I feel good that there are no big catastrophes or anything like that.

Today we go to the lawyers office and make the purchase final (signing our lives away...ha ha) but it's exciting cause this means all the paperwork, phone calls, etc are over. Then tomorrow we only have to load up a truck and pick up a key, a lot less stressful :)

Oh wanna hear a funny story? Yesterday my cousin Kayla was bringing groceries into her house through the basement door, all the while not realizing my dad had hidden behind the basement door cause he had seen her coming. So when she opened the door jumped out at her. She told me she just started screaming cause she didn't know what was going on. LMAO, isn't that just hilarious, I guess you have to know my dad and know Kayla to get the full effect but I think it's great.

Love Triangles & Legal Assistants

It's been a crazy week, not only at home packing boxes but at work too (month end, and countless invoices). Just an update on the love triangle, the co-worker came in the next day to ask why I put through the call from the ex-girlfriend. I explained that she said it was urgent and she had never said that before so I didn't really know what to do. The co-worker replied, well it doesn't matter, no matter what she says, emergency or not I don't want the call. She can't call me at home and I like it that way, and I don't want to take her calls here...or something along those lines. I'm like that's fine, now I know. She's like well I don't want to keep bothering you about it. And that was it....but deep down I still think it's a collections agency. Wish I really could get to the bottom of this. Myrna had left a comment however about "karma" and how she's not so innocent and pure herself. So maybe she really is an ex and this is her payback. Life works out in strange ways.

Now as for legal assistants...there's been some confusion with the final numbers on prices for closing costs. To figure it all out, it appears some of our upgrades weren't added to the mortgage so they want us to pay cash for them at closing. So I'm trying to get the proper paperwork sent to our mortgage guy so a cheque can be sent from the bank to the lawyer for closing day. However, for the past 3 days I seem to be hitting a wall cause nobody is understanding what I am requesting and I'm the middle person. Finally today I was talking to my lawyers assistant and she started getting mad and snippy with me, cause she thought I was being an ass. So I told her how to add, yes really I did....and she's like oh yes I see what you're saying now. Grrr...

So as of now, I think everyone understands what paperwork I require and its just a waiting game. Can't really expect too much on a Friday afternoon I guess. But if this is my only headache with moving to the new house, I'll take it. Knock on Wood, so far things have been going pretty well. Maybe moving day will be a disaster...eek!!

Update on the love triangle/collections agency

The "lady" just called again, I didn't page, just left her on hold a couple of minutes and went back and said "Sorry the supervisor isn't answering the page. She's like well you need to page someone, anyone, foreman, another supervisor. I NEED to speak to Mrs. Silva, this is URGENT! And she wasn't very polite. I'm like..."oookaaay" and paged the supervisor who then in turned paged the co-worker. So far nobody has come in to yell at me, hopefully they won't. Oh well see what happens.

Hope

"Hope is not just … looking out the window and going, 'Everything looks pretty good. 'That's what optimism is. Hope is when you look out the window and you go, 'It doesn't look good at all, but I'm going to go beyond what I see to give people visions of what could be."
-Anna Deavere Smith

and the saga continues...

If you recall from yesterday I had put in my blog about a co-worker in the plant coming in to ask me not to page her for calls from a certain lady (she claims is an ex-girlfriend of her husband) However, being a receptionist I've started to recognize certain calls to certain employees. Let me explain further....

I recall this "lady" calling a few days ago, not once was the tone of voice, background noise, etc, anything remotely related too a bitter ex harassing a current wife. But who am I to judge I've never been in this situation. So guess what, the "lady" just called, she explained to me that the co-worker has to call her at this number before noon because its an important matter regarding her account.

Now back to my experience as a receptionist....these calls are usually collection agencies its the same sort of background noise from those call centres, not to mention she was extremely polite to me but firm in trying to get the point across of how important it is that the call be returned.

I'm so confused, either the co-worker is a complete slacker and is lying to avoid paying her bills OR the ex "lady" is really good at harassing someone cause I would never think that this nice voice on the phone is capable of being a part of such acts!! Either way I'll keep you posted how this plays out.

Being 25

Is soooo stressful....it's supposed to be that time in your life when you're carefree, out partying, having fun. Instead I'm so worked up about so many things. Apparently what nobody tells you is at 25 you're supposed to know who you are and make life altering decisions. For example, where to live, where to work, when to marry, when to have children, what are your goals in life so you invest your money properly, it goes on and on. I know I'm not the only one in this situation cause I've had many conversations with friends lately about the exact same issues. I can't wait to be 40 when you supposedly have everything in life figured out....lol.

Thursday Thoughts

Last night was our first night of volleyball of the 2005-06 season. I was happy and disappointed all at the same time. I loved getting back out on the courts and spending time with the girls. Disappointed cause I was frustrated with our performance (we lost all 3 games) I'm trying to remind myself that its the first night back and most of us haven't done much since last years season ended last April. he he. So I think we'll start to come around in a few weeks. Have to keep spirits up and play hard.

Yesterday was officially 2 weeks til we move to the new house. Kristen decided last night to clean the garage and pack up a few things while I was out. I was soooo happy, the garage and electronice things are the few things that I didn't want to have to take care of before we moved. So relieved that he took that initiative. Every evening I've been trying to pack a box, I think I'm really going to go heavy duty while Kristen is hunting this weekend. I don't really have any plans so that'll be what it I guess.

Holy crap, a lady here at work just asked me not to give her any calls unless its her husband or daughter cause her husbands ex girlfriend is harassing her. She's been married for years and is far from in her 20's. Wow, some people just never grow up I guess. Just had to share cause it really surprises me.

So yeah, back to reality.....lol. I think I'm getting that head cold thats goind around. I have a sore throat and a stuffy nose even thought I don't really feel sick. Hopefully this is as bas as it gets, if it gets worse I'll probably be more whiney. If I do, I guess my weekend will be relaxing and having chicken soup :)

Happy Thanksgiving

Well this is going to be a mushy post, I was reading another blog this morning and she had listed everything she was thankful for. I'm going to do the same.

Health- unless I'm healthy it's hard to enjoy anything in life. Especially since a friend was diagnosed with Hodgkins disease this year (at only 22) it really hits home how lucky so many of us really are.

Home- just over 2 weeks and I will be in my new home. How many people can say they had their first new home at 25. Kristen and I are very fortunate.

Wealth- no we're NOT rich, far from it but we are both employed and there's not much that we want that we do go without.....well within reason :)

Family- I've been so blessed to have a close and supportive family. Not only do I have a brother, and my parents alive and well. I also have all my grandparents still kicking. I remember being in Grade 4 and talking to a boy in Grade 5 and he said to me "so you know all your grandparents?" and "I'm like yup some of my great grandparents too" (I think 2 of them were still alive at the time) he's like "you're so lucky" and I kind of looked at him weird thinking well doesn't everyone know their grandparents? He never knew any of his....now looking back I realize he missed out on so many things with "Nan and Pop" that if we talked now he could never relate too.

Friends- I have sooooo many great friends. A couple that are really close to me. Without you guys I don't know what I would do, you keep me sane, let me bitch and vent, you make me laugh, let me cry, and help me realize why girlfriends are the most important thing to have in the world.

Love- last but certainly not least, there's Kristen. I don't even know what to say here without embarrassing the shit out of him....lol. You're my best friend, the one I share secrets with that nobody else knows, you keep me grounded and remind me when I'm not being a "better" person. You're always giving me hugs or cuddling in the morning (making it so hard to get up). I love that you're so passionate about the things you love, hunting, fishing and hockey. I love that you tolerate my moods and moments of craziness. And as hard as it is to admit I like that you're a smartass, yes it does aggravate me sometimes, but the rest of the time it makes me laugh and I love that we can just have fun together.

So yeah, that's it for now, all of these topics especially family, friends and love I could just go on and on. But I won't.....hope you all have a great thanksgiving and take even just a few moments to reflect on what you're thankful for.

I want a pumpkin like this one....

Just rec'd this email thought it might put you in the Halloween spirit :)

Ramblings

I feel like doing a post but I really have nothing to talk about.Oh there are a lot of things going on in my life right now that I could talk about but prefer not too since this isn't really the most private place to share my thoughts.

Kristen was pretty excited last night about the NHL season starting again. Unfortunately Leafs lost against the Ottawa Senators in overtime but they still played a great game. While he watched hockey I had all intentions of catching up on some reading but ended up scrapbooking instead. I finally started Myrna's and Jamie's wedding pages. They aren't finished but well on the way. Just need to finish up the journalling and embellishments. After cluing that up for the evening I watched LOST. Oh did I mention that Kristen and I like Sawyer as a future boy name when we eventually do have kids!?!? lol.

Tonight Jen and I are going to the Volleyball Captains meeting, even though its a pain in the butt to go, it's very exciting cause it means that volleyball is "probably" starting next Wednesday...yay :) I hope we have a great season this year, we have a couple good players that I think we'll be a real help to us this year. Not only will we have fun we might be more competitve than previous years....hope so...he he.

Celebrity Twin

Got this one from other blogs as well....I'm so excited about this one cause I love this gal!!

Your Celebrity Style Twin is Jessica Simpson

Flirty, feminine, and fun.

Who's" Your Celebrity Style Twin?

I am sooooo boring

I did this quiz that Myrna had on her blog (Daphnes friend Deb did too) and apparently I'm just a "normal" girl, I soooo suck. Need to start doing something more adventurous.

You Are a Normal Girl

You are 60% Good and 40% BadSure you've pulled some bad girl stunts in your past.But these days, you're (mostly) a good girl.

Are You a Good Girl or a Bad Girl?

Babysitting Esau

This weekend was a good one, Friday night I went to watch Kristen play hockey (which they won, due to the other team having no goalie) and VERY early Saturday morning I headed to Kristen's Uncle Brians house to babysit Esau. Kristen and his Uncle were going Deer hunting since it was opening day of the hunting season. I was nervous but excited. Esau is 9 months old and I haven't babysat a child that young literally in years! But it all went well, he's such a pleasant and easy baby to take care of. When he woke up in the morning he didn't cry he just sat up and grinned at me. Later in the afternoon, Myrna, Esau, the dogs and myself all went for a walk. It took us a while to get ready (leashes, strollers, coats, hat, doggie bags, etc) but then we were off and it was a really nice time. No wonder Dr. Phil says a stay at home mom is equal to 2 full time jobs (especially if you have dogs) lol!!

I had a great time though, I don't think I failed miserably at being a pretend mom for the day. However, I didn't exactly get "baby fever" either. I know I do want kids but I also know that I'm not "quite" ready to start trying for a little one just yet :) I do hope that I get the opportunity to babysit again, he's just so sweet and its really good practice too ...he he. I think Uncle Brian is doing a great job considering everything he's been through and how well he seems to be coping.

Then on Sunday I did laundry, went to Kristens 2nd hockey game of the weekend (which they lost 5-3) and then headed to Acton for a look at our house. The ceilings are done, drywall done, hot water tank and furnace installed, garage door going to the backyard installed and all our ceramic tiles for the floors and bathroom are on site and hopefully being installed soon as well. Only 23 sleeps and we move! Yay!

Nan & Pop Bishop

I was just going back to previous blogs and realized that I meant to post a pic of Nan & Pop Bishop but hadn't sent the pic to the computer therefore couldn't do it. Then I ended up forgetting, so better late than never a picture of Nan & Pop in their Sunday's Best clothes, I caught them just as they arrived home from the morning service.

Introducing Kennedy Barnes

Here is the pretty baby girl :)

Update on Lori

It's a girl, she weighed in at 4lbs. 11oz. unsure of her name. She came out crying much to Lori's delight. She was breathing on her own (a concern when born pre-mature) however her lungs were a bit cloudy so they have her on an assisted breathing even though its not life support. The Doctor said she'll probably be in the Hamilton hospital for a week and then transferred back to Peel in Brampton for another week, with high hopes that she can be brought home in two weeks. Which is GREAT news!!

Lori still has some risk but everyone is hoping for the best. Myrna sent me an article about Placenta previa if you would like to read up: http://www.babycenter.com/refcap/pregnancy/pregcomplications/830.html

Emergency C-section

I don't think I have mentioned in previous blogs that my cousin Lori has been in the hospital since this summer (July I think) due to a high risk pregnancy. She has Placenta previa if I remember correctly. Basically it means that she could hemorrhage to death and the baby coudl die as well. It's really scary but every precaution has been taken by the Doctors to monitor her and keep her as stable as possible.

Yesterday my Aunt informed me that they would be doing a c-section on Oct. 7th. The baby is at 33 weeks currently and the goal was to get passed 32 so this is a good thing. However this morning the bleeding started again and doesn't appear to be stopping. At 11am today the Doctors will be doing an emergency c-section. I just hope everything goes well and both mom and baby are okay. Please say a prayer and keep them in your thoughts today.

Introducing Zachery

Some pics of my friend Tina's new bundle of joy...isn't he adorable?

Babbling for a tuesday...

Well I had a pretty good weekend, Friday night made cookies for the baby shower, then went to Kristen's hockey game. Saturday I went shopping with Jen for gifts for the baby shower, then spent the rest of the day scrapbooking and Sunday I went to the baby shower and did some more scrapbooking while Kristen was gone to his 2nd game of hockey for the weekend.

Bobbi-Lynn's baby shower was nice. There were a lot of people in a small living room so it was extremely warm and humid but everyone seemed to enjoy themselves regardless of being a bit uncomfortable. She got a LOT of gifts for her new baby girl Shannon and the food was great. I'll post pics once I take them off the camera :)

Last night Jen and I went to register for the 2005-06 season of volleyball. It's just so exciting, I think we "might" be starting Oct. 12th just based on part of a conversation we heard last night, and based on knowledge from previous years which is great cause the sooner we get started the better. Also on Monday, Oct. 3rd I start my pilates sessions. I think it'll feel good to be working out twice a week again. When we get settled in Acton I'm hoping to get back into my walking routine as well. Hopefully it won't be too cold...brr.

This morning I put ribs on to cook in the slowcooker, based on Myrna's VERY simple instructions. I hope they turn out good, might be a new meal favourite if they do. Anyway that's it, just some babbling for today.

1 Month til I MOVE!!

It's exactly 30 sleeps today til I move into the new house. Just sooo exciting, thought I'd share.

Volleyball

Well last night Kristen and I went to Acton (2nd time this week and it's only Wed) the house is really coming along. Soaker tub, windows, doors, wiring, plumbing all installed, not to mention our garage floor is now poured. So we went by Jason's and Steph's house where she was still preparing dinner at 7:30 I strongly suggested to her she starting using her slowcooker. Which reminds me I need get Myrna to share her ribs recipe with her. Anyway....the reason we went by was to pick up money and waivers for registration for the Brampton Volleyball league, womens division. Only a few weeks away and our Wednesday girls night out will begin. I look forward to these nights, not only because I LOVE VOLLEYBALL but because it's a good way to just socialize with my girlfriends and have a great time out. This year since so many of us are going to be Acton residents we had to alter our addresses a little bit...he, he, cause 80% of your team must be from Brampton and since 4 out of 8 will be driving in,...the numbers didn't quite add up :)

I'm so excited to be getting back into the swing of things, I do enjoy fall for so many reasons...change of season, the colours, Thanksgiving & Halloween but most of all getting back into the "winter" routine of hockey, pilates, and the greatest thing of all VOLLEYBALL! If you're from Brampton check out the website www.bramptonvolleyball.com

It's a Boy

My mom called me at work Friday evening to tell me that a childhood friend Tina Fagan (formerly Young) had a baby boy on Thursday evening (Sept. 15th) So far as she knew he was being called Zachery Michael and weighed in just under 8lbs. If someone knows more accurate info please let me know.

Congratulations to Tina and Mike on the arrival of your baby boy. I hope all is well and to mommy Tina a speedy recovery :)

Love

I rec'd an email this morning about love in the eyes of 4-8 year olds...a couple really stood out. Here they are:

"Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen."
Bobby-age 7

Author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia once talked about a contest he was asked to judge. The purpose of the contest was to find the most caring child. The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, "Nothing, I just helped him cry"

Marina's Pregnant Belly

My friend since I was a very young age (even before Kindergarten) informed me when I was in Nfld that she was pregnant. I don't remember exactly how far along she is, but I think its like 4 months. Anyway, she sent me pics. Thought I'd share this one cause I thinks she's huge for being so early. Everyone keeps teasing her (myself included) that she's having twins. Either way I hope she has a healthy pregnancy and all the best :)

Fruit Flies

Today is going to be a great day, I can just tell! First the stupid email from the landlord and now a fruit fly was on my bagel so I had to throw it out. Well it decided to fly off my bagel and right into my coffee. So much for my breakfast :(

I guess later this morning I'll have crackers and tea.

Renting an Apt

I'm so upset this morning. Kristen sent an email to our landlord yesterday explaining about a fee that we've been paying on the gas/heat bill and asking for reimbursement since we moved into the apt 2 years ago. We figured he probably would say no but no harm in asking, this email has been one of many many emails sent to our landlord over the time that we have lived in his crappy basement apt.

I came in this morning to his response on my email....I'm so upset I could cry, or I should say so angry I could cry. He not only has said he's stunned that we should ask this cause he's done us SOOO many favours (what a crock of shit that is) that he should be the one asking for money for this and that, all of which were problems before and when we moved in. He has also basically called me a liar!! A liar of all things! One thing to accuse us of doing or not doing something but to attack my character directly is a big no no. He claimed that I told him we were moving into our new house in the spring and he's doing us a huge favour by allowing us to stay til Oct. First of all I didn't tell him when we were moving cause we didn't want him to know so he wouldn't make up some excuse to evict us earlier (he's pissed at us cause he's a real estate guy and we bought a new house and not a shitty old house like he wanted us to buy through him,....he's not a very good real estate guy in my opinion) and second of all you have to give a 60 day notice, we have never given notice for anything regarding moving out until the end of Aug 2005 when I submitted our official 60 day notice that we were moving the end of October.

Anyway, I could bitch and vent and go on forever but I'm going to let it be. Kristen nor I will be responding to the email. We will have no communication with our landlord until we move when we pass in our keys (if at all possible) I'm done, I'm tired of arguing, tired of being accused of being something I'm not just cause a cheap ass real estate guy is so money hungry that he doesn't care if his tennats are happy, or take pride in the home that he's trying to make his money from.

Can't wait to move into the house, only 41 more sleeps....yay! Going to be a LONG 41 days living in the shithole we're in :(

Courage

Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I'll try again tomorrow.

-Mary Anne Radmacher

Pics of Shannon

Pics courtesy of Myrna Hynes :)

Another Baby in the world...

Congratulations to Bobbi-Lynn & Rusty on the birth of their new baby girl "Shannon Rebecca" who came into the world on Sept. 11 weighing in at 6lbs. 12oz.

Bobbi-Lynn was 3 weeks early but both mom and baby are in excellent health and doing well. Will post pics of the baby when I get some.

Congrats you guys!

Homesick

So many things have went through my mind since returning from Nfld. I realized how much I miss the lifestyle, scenery and most of all my family. I think quite a bit about how I could create an opportunity for myself to make a go of a life back there. I've realized that I would love for my children to grow up having the similiar experiences in life that I had as a young child. Something they wouldn't have growing up in the city rather than small town Nfld.

I don't know what the future holds, where I will live or work. I do know that Kristen and I have to do a lot of talking and thinking about where we see our lives going and what our goals are. In the meantime, here are a few quotes on Oprah's website for September.

“My art and profession is to live.”

—Montaigne

“People underestimate their capacity for change. There is never a right time to do a difficult thing.”

—John Porter

“The future is called ‘perhaps,’ which is the only possible thing to call the future. And the only important thing is not to allow that to scare you.”

—Tennessee Williams

Rain

I love the rain....as long as I can remember there were few occassions where I was disappointed that it rained (not counting weddings & camping) I find it very soothing, calming, relaxing. I feel like it protects me, like a big blanket around me. I know cheesy but for some reason I just do.

My favourite rain is summer rain. Hot Rain I call it, when its pouring but it doesn't matter cause it's just like you're standing in the shower. I know there are some who hate rain, especially those who are victims of Hurricane Katrina, I'm sure they've cursed the rain more than one in the past days. My heart & prayers go out to them, however I cannot change how I feel today.

When it rains, I often think of a song that I like by Jo Dee Messina it's called Bring on the Rain. Here are the lyrics:

Another day has almost come and gone
Can’t imagine what else could wrong
Sometimes I’d like to hide away somewhere and lock the door
A single battle lost but not the war
(‘cause)

Tomorrow’s another day
And I’m thirsty anyway
So bring on the rain

It’s almost like the hard times circle ‘round
A couple drops and they all start coming down
Yeah, I might feel defeated,I might hang my head
I might be barely breathing - but I’m not dead

Tomorrow’s another day
And I’m thirsty anyway
So bring on the rain
I’m not gonna let it get me down
I’m not gonna cry
And I’m not gonna lose any sleep tonight

Tomorrow's another day
And I am not afraid
So Bring on the Rain...

My apologies if any of the lyrics are wrong, but I think that's the jest of it.

Scrapbooking

I've decided that blogger needs new font colours, I want PINK!! This is the closest they have to it.

Anyway, thanks to Myrna and Jennifer...about 2 years ago they got me into scrapbooking. They had been bugging me for quite a while to take up the hobby. I had done amateur scrapbooks in previous years but nothing like what they were doing. I kept saying, "nope cause then I have to commit and what if I get tired and I have all this supplies?!?! So nope, stop asking me." Finally I cracked and picked up the habit.

Then last Sept (2004) I had a hardcore scrapbooking day with them and then....that was it. Nothing, I probably did 4 pages after that date. Until last weekend that was...we decided to get together on Sunday (Sept. 4th, 2005) I did 5 or 6 pages and now once again I'm hooked. I'm kicking myself for getting so behind. However, I'm not discouraged about what I have to do, I'm looking forward to getting my creative juices flowing again.

Here are a couple of the websites that I refer to: www.discountscrapbooksupplies.com (for purchases) and www.twopeasinabucket.com (for ideas, click on peanut gallery) If you're a fellow scrapbooker share your ideas, websites, and experiences.

Our House has Walls

Kristen and I went to Acton last night to discover our house is pretty much framed. Pretty good considering we went a week ago and there was no progress since before our Nfld trip. All the roof thingys (not house vocabulary educated) are sitting in our front yard to go on either today or early next week is my guess. Boring to most of you but exciting for me, here's some pics.

God's Purpose

I'd rather not explain why I'm posting this entry but I NEED feedback from anyone and everyone. Tell me what you think your purpose is in life, why did God put you here? What's your calling? Were you meant to be a school teacher? A minister? A good neighbour? Do you even believe in God? Do you believe in some other power? Whatever you think or feel, please share....

My Name by George Canyon

Yesterday while I was home I was watching some talk show, Vicki Gabereau or something?!!? And the winner of Nashville Star was on there, George Canyon. He sang this song that he wrote for his cousin who had a miscarriage. Its written from the perspective of the baby. We've all known someone who has experienced such a sad thing so I thought I would share the lyrics. It's called My Name.

It’s cold in here feels like everything’s upside down
I can feel you talking but I can barely make out the sound
I been kicking around these parts, feels like a year
I’m gonna change this world if I ever get out of here
She wants to dress me in pink, paint’s my bedroom blue
And I just laugh to myself, because only I know the truth
This love is my only emotion
Haven’t learned any fear any pain
It’s kind of funny with all this commotion
I guess they’ve got me, to blame
And they don’t even know my name
And they don’t even know my name

Well I’ve never felt so ready, think it’s finally time
Cause that big old world is waiting, and it’s mine all mine
Just then everything got real quiet, it got real bright
And a man took my hand said don’t worry, your mommas gonna be alright
Then he opened the gate, & I followed him in
Said you can wait right here, till it’s your turn again
And his love is the one true emotion
Heaven knows no fear no pain
I never got to set my wheels in motion
But they loved me just the same
And they didnt even know my name
Didn’t even know my name
You loved me just the same
And you didn’t even know my name

How would you like your eggs...?

I have just finished eating scrambled eggs, bacon, toast with cheese whiz topped off with a tall glass of milk...It was okay, a bit greasy but that's how I feel this morning. You're probably thinking, gee she must have gotten up early today to have that for breakfast before going to work. Well see...I'm not at work, I called in sick today.

OOhhh....bad I know, especially if you're not physically sick per se...however!!....I'm claiming mental sickness today :) Last night was a rough night for me, I bickered and complained with Kristen the whole night, I was contrary, angry, sad, frustrated, anything miserable...that was it.

I'm at the breaking point, there are just so many things that I've wanted to do, meant to do, should be doing, and since returning from Nfld I've done NONE of it. I went to bed overwhelmed, thinking, thinking, thinking (I'm guilty of doing that too much sometimes) and realized I just have to take a day for me. To do cleaning (already have the bathroom scrubbed and a load of laundry and its 9:45am) to organize a few of the boxes in the living room/hallway (my brother is moving out tomorrow and in less than 2 months we move to the new house) and who knows what else is on my to do list.

So I ask myself should I feel guilty about staying home today? What do I say to all the little 'ol bittys tomorrow when I go in and they're all like, how do you feel today, what was wrong with you? Too be honest I don't even give a rats ass what they think or don't think. I don't need to justify when I know I need some time for me and when I need a break. I would like to think I know myself well enough to know what I need when I need it.

Anyway, enough of my rambling on, time for me to finish checking things off my to do list. Wish me luck and peace of mind :)

The Terrible Daughter

In all the hustle and bustle of returning from vacation, getting back in the work scene and then our camping trip this weekend (which was great, a lot of rain Saturday evening, but overall a good time) I realized this morning that I hadn't talked to my parents since Thursday night meaning I missed calling them on their 29th wedding anniversary on the 27th (Saturday) I will have to make sure a phone call is made tonight ....eek!

My parents met January 1976 when my dad was visiting Bonne Bay. He went for the weekend with two friends from school (he was attending school in Stephenville to get his GED) while there he met my mom. By August 27, 1976 they were married, my dad was finished school and now a Bonne Bay resident. June 19th, 1977 my brother Blaine was born. They lived in Shoal Brook renting a little cottage I guess you could call it behind Mr. Cyril Sheppard's House. Dec 1979 they moved into our house (half of it was Aunt Thelma Caines old bakery) in Glenburnie and on March 22, 1980 I came into the world :)

I have seen from my parents the effort that goes into making a marriage work, I have seen the rough times when we didn't know where the next meal was going to come from (but was always provided for, by a loving family and church) I have seen the laughter, the hugs, the kisses, and the co-operation. My dad helping mom with the dishes, my mom helping dad figure out some problem. There are so many good things that I can take with me to my relationship because of their example. I'm very proud of them and love them very much. Congratulations Mom & Dad on 29 years of marriage and I hope for many many more.

Hi, Ho...Hi, Ho its off to Flesherton we go!

And in a couple of minutes I'm off to Flesherton for another great weekend of camping and socializing with my friends. I'm really looking forward to the campfires, chatting with the girls, and hopefully a good game of volleyball.

I really need this weekend away, my first week back from vacation hasn't been an easy one. Hectic at work, missing home, the adjustment to re-joining the "rat race"...I could go on. Well time to go, I hope you have a great weekend as I am planning to have. Ciao!

Kristen & Riley

Kristen found a new best friend while we were home! His name is Riley, he is 7 months old, very hyper and extremely loveable.
As soon as Riley would see us coming up the hill he would starting running around, shaking, barking, the whole nine yards cause he couldn't wait to greet Kristen and then of course go play catch. If you ask why they are in the trunk of a car, well....Kristen wanted to show me how there was a latch inside so if you got kidnapped you could get out!! When Riley saw Kristen he had to be where he was, so of course he jumped inside too and lucky me had the camera to get the shot.

Kayla Goes to College

Just before Kayla left to go to Sir Wilfred Grenfell College in Corner Brook we decided to take a few snapshots together. This is Kayla and Kenda posing with me in front of my brothers beloved pine tree (a whole other story) and then Uncle Shawn giving the thumbs up when the car was all packed and ready to go :)

Visiting With My Family

A couple of days before we came back Kristen, My dad, and myself drove to Stanhope to visit with my Nan & Pop Ball. It was so nice to see them, even if only for a few short hours.
Once we returned to Bonne Bay, my mom, dad, Kristen and I went to the Old Loft restaurant for dinner. I had Cod Chowder, scallops wrapped in bacon, and finished off with turtles cheesecake, well what I could get of it. Kristen said he didn't want dessert and then ate most of mine. That should tell you how good it all was. The highlights of the evening were when the Catamaran Boat Tour went by, the boat is called the Emm Cate (prounced CAT) and the whale that kept coming up for air around the bay as we ate. I could get a picture cause he would be going back under by the time the camera would snap. Sorry I tried my best :(

Visiting With Kristens Family

We spent a lot of time with Kristens family while we were home. The first two pictures are of our day trip in boat. Just after this trip Kristens dad took the boat out of the water for extra repairs.

The third picture I took of Paula the day we were leaving to come back. She obviously still didn't have the baby and I really wanted to get a "maternity" picture of her. This one was my favourite.

Mr. & Mrs. Jason Cullihall

The excuse to go home this summer was to attend Stephs and Jasons wedding. This is at the rehearsal dinner.
The Bride & Groom held a slow dance where you had to pay a toonie to dance with them. I decided that not only did I want to dance with the groom I wanted to dance with the bride as well.
Steph & Jason towards the end of the evening and anxious to get away for the night....he, he.
Jen (Maid of Honour) with Chris
Kristen and I are the park in Corner Brook where Steph & Jason had some of their wedding pictures taken.